Modular Monocoque Military Vehicle Hull for Blast-Resistant Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional military vehicles require sequential assembly of components to frame rails, which complicates lifting and assembly processes, and lack efficient blast protection and weight optimization.
Innovation Solution
A frame rail-less monocoque hull structure with integrated modules for the vehicle's front and rear, featuring lift structures and breakaway sections for efficient lifting and blast energy absorption, combined with a modular armor assembly and advanced powertrain components for improved durability and performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional frame rails are used for structural support, then the vehicle can be assembled sequentially with components coupled to the frame rails, but the lifting process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle body is divided into separate modules (cab module, cargo module, powertrain module) that can be assembled independently and then coupled together. This segmentation allows parallel assembly of modules while simplifying the lifting process, as completed modules can be positioned and connected without requiring sequential attachment to frame rails.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame rails are integrated directly into the module structures themselves rather than being separate components. Each module includes its own structural frame elements, merging the support function into the modules and eliminating the need for separate frame rail assembly and lifting operations.
2Ease of manufacture
If frame rails are used as the primary structure, then components can be coupled sequentially, but the vehicle weight increases and blast protection is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is divided into discrete modules with integrated structural elements. Each module's frame structure serves dual purposes: providing structural support and defining the module boundaries. This eliminates redundant frame rail structures and reduces overall vehicle weight while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The module structures are designed to perform multiple functions: structural support, component mounting, and blast energy management. The structural elements serve as both load-bearing components and attachment points for various vehicle systems, reducing the need for additional weight-bearing frame structures.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional frame rail structure is used, then sequential assembly is possible, but blast protection efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle body is segmented into separate modules that can independently manage blast energy. When subjected to blast forces, the modular structure allows energy to be distributed and absorbed by individual modules rather than concentrating stress on frame rails, improving blast protection while maintaining assembly flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The module coupling interfaces are designed to act as energy management features during blast events. The connections between modules can flex and deform to absorb blast energy, converting the harmful blast force into beneficial energy dissipation that protects the crew compartment and critical systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If frame rails are used for structural support, then the vehicle can be assembled with various components, but the overall vehicle complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle is divided into standardized modules with defined interfaces. This segmentation allows different module configurations (varying numbers and types of cargo modules, cab positions) without requiring changes to the fundamental structural system, reducing complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The module coupling interfaces are designed as universal connection systems that can accommodate different module types and configurations. The same interface design works for various cargo module variants, powertrain positions, and cab configurations, simplifying the structural system while enabling vehicle versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes providing a plurality of passenger capsules where each of the plurality of passenger capsules has a frame rail-less monocoque hull structure and the plurality of passenger capsules include (a) a first passenger capsule defining four door openings and (b) a second passenger capsule defining two door openings; providing a plurality of front modules; providing a plurality of rear modules; coupling (a) a first front module to a front end of the first passenger capsule and (b) a first rear module to a rear end of the first passenger capsule to provide a first military vehicle variant; and coupling (a) a second front module to a front end of the second passenger capsule and (b) a second rear module to a rear end of the second passenger capsule to provide a second military vehicle variant.